Page 63 of The Untamed Duke
“How kind of you, Your Grace,” she murmured as the dessert plates were cleared away. “Do you think Skye will be well enough that you can ride tomorrow?”
“I hope so. He was much improved when I checked before dinner. Hugh is a magician with his secret poultice.”
“If he hasn't recovered by morning, you may borrow any horse in my stable. In fact, you may take Llyr back to Oakmont and breed the mares we discussed before. We’ll be leaving for Beaumont later this week, and I’ll happily loan him. Besides, he could use the exercise as no one rides him when I’m away.”
The quirk of Nicholas’s full lips said the intentions of her impulsive offer were very clear. The eventual swap of the horses, at Belmar Abbey or Oakmont, provided an excellent opportunity for continuing their relationship in a legitimate context.
“A generous offer, Lady Grace, and an excellent idea, regardless of Skye’s recovery from the stone bruise. With this venture, you may become a frequent visitor at Oakmont. Given our close proximity,” Nicholas said with a tiny smile, “we should discuss arrangements for an extended stay…”
He wore that smile Grace witnessed many times before. The one that did not quite reach his eyes. Oh, blast it. He intentionally poked Sebastian, hoping for a reaction.
As expected, her cousin shot to his feet, despite Ivy’s warning grip on his arm. “A word, Richeforte. Now.”
Nicholas merely tilted his head, gazing at the other man as though he’d taken leave of his senses. Sipping his wine, he tsked. “I’m loathe to abandon the ladies, but should you insist.”
“Sebastian…” Ivy implored.
Sebastian vibrated with anger, his mouth tight, but he spared her a glance. “I won’t break my promise, butterfly. But an understanding must be reached.”
“My lord,” Grace interjected quietly. “Please sit.” When the earl remained standing, she stood as well. “You are abusing my hospitality and intimidating my guest. Please. Sit down.”
Sebastian’s jaw clenched with such force, it should have cracked. Nicholas watched serenely as the earl slowly sank back into his chair and tossed his napkin beside his plate. It was akin to throwing down the gauntlet. Tension increased a hundredfold in a matter of seconds.
“I appreciate your defense, Lady Grace; I’ve no issue speaking with the earl privately.” Nicholas stood, draining his wine goblet. “He’ll not want blood splatters on the clothes he lent me, so I’m probably safe.”
“I already made a vow that I wouldn’t harm you,” Sebastian bit out.
“How solicitous,” Nicholas drawled. “However, it’s the spilling of your own blood that should concern you.”
Chapter 25
Eyes of gold and morning dew
They see everything I cannot conceal
Few secrets remain once she looks her fill.
~Nicholas August Harris March
Ninth Duke of Richeforte
The earl enteredthe drawing room and wordlessly poured two brandies from the assortment of liquors on the sideboard, handing one over as Nicholas nodded his thanks.
For a long moment, neither man spoke. Sebastian had apparently reined in his temper while making their way down the hall, but he was a dangerous opponent.
“What are you about, Nicholas?” Sebastian finally sighed in exasperation. His silver gaze caught and held the duke’s. “What game are you playing with Grace?”
“No games, Seb.” Nicholas grimaced at how easily the nickname slipped off his tongue. A gulp of brandy hid his discomfort. “She is in full control, whether I remain or leave Bellmar Abbey. I await her pleasure.”
“Bollocks. Must you pursue and ruin yet another innocent female?” Sebastian’s features held true concern for his cousin, banked anger glittering in his stare. “Was Marilee not enough?”
Nicholas rotated the brandy snifter in the cradle of his palm. His voice came low, almost in a growl. “Marilee was neither pursued nor innocent. Do not make the mistake of comparing Grace to her.”
“Are you saying Marilee lied to me?” Sebastian demanded.
“No. She was pregnant. That much is true.”
Silence fell between the men, hanging in a fog of animosity and mistrust until Sebastian said in a whiplash-like voice, “How you must have hated me to do such a thing.”
